UMVA has learned that a months-long external review has found the conduct of Pickering City Councillor Lisa Robinson to be workplace bullying and intimidation.
The review, which was conducted by an external legal firm, substantiated allegations that Robinson engaged in an "ongoing campaign of bullying, intimidation and persistent harassing conduct" against city staff, starting in 2024.
According to information obtained by UMVA, the investigation involved a comprehensive review of evidence, including emails, letters, videos, integrity commissioner reports, and witness evidence, which revealed a broader pattern of behavior that created a poisoned work environment.
The investigator concluded that the cumulative effect of Robinson's statements and actions directed at staff constituted workplace harassment, prompting the city to take action against her.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Robinson has denied the allegations, accusing the city of conducting a one-sided investigation against her and denying her requests for representation.
Robinson, who is also a mayoral candidate, maintains that she was unfairly treated and that the city's process was flawed, as she was not allowed to challenge the allegations, question the process, or defend herself.
In response to the findings, the city has decided to limit Robinson's participation in future council meetings to virtual-only for the remainder of her term and update its indemnification by-law to address adverse conduct toward city employees.
Sources have confirmed to UMVA that Robinson's actions have been a subject of controversy, with some city officials and staff alleging that she has created a toxic work environment.
Robinson has stated that she remains committed to her role and will continue to ask tough questions, hold government accountable, and speak up for the residents of Pickering.
